Tips and Tricks for Cleaning the Inside of Your Car

At Rice Street Car Wash, we’re known for our touchless automatic wash and oversized self-serve bays, but keeping your car looking its best doesn’t stop at the exterior. A clean interior makes driving more enjoyable, improves resale value, and keeps your car feeling like new.

The good news? You don’t need a professional detailer. With the right products and a few tricks, you can tackle your interior like a pro. And you’ll find everything you need—Meguiar’s, Mothers, Shout Auto, microfiber towels, glass cleaners, and more—right here at Rice Street Car Wash.

Step 1: Start with a Clean Slate

Our vacuums are super powerful with 3 motors!

Before using sprays or protectants, remove all trash, floor mats, and personal items. Then, grab one of our Fragramatics vacuums (free for car wash members via the QR code in the app!) to get rid of dirt, sand, and pet hair. Pay special attention to seams, under the seats, and floor mat edges.

Pro Tip: Use a soft-bristled brush or even an old toothbrush to loosen dirt in tight seams before vacuuming.

Step 2: Refresh Carpets and Upholstery

Fabric seats and carpets can trap odors, spills, and stains. That’s where Shout Auto Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner comes in.

• Spray directly onto stains and allow the foam to penetrate.

• Use a microfiber towel or upholstery brush to lift dirt.

• Blot (don’t rub!) for best results.

Pro Tip: For stubborn stains, a second application paired with light scrubbing usually does the trick.

Step 3: Wipe Down Surfaces with Protectants

Mothers Glass cleaner and Protectant sold in our vending area. Perfect start for cleaning and protecting!

Dust, fingerprints, and UV rays can leave dashboards and door panels looking tired. Meguiar’s and Mothers interior cleaners and protectants restore shine while adding a protective layer.

• Spray onto a microfiber towel (not directly on the dash to avoid overspray).

• Wipe evenly across surfaces, including steering wheel, console, and door panels.

• Use a dry microfiber to buff off excess for a natural finish.

Pro Tip: Always use protectants with UV blockers—especially important during Minnesota summers when sun damage can fade and crack vinyl and plastic.

Step 4: Don’t Forget the Glass

Nothing ruins a clean interior like streaky windows. Our automotive glass cleaners cut through fingerprints, haze, and smoke film.

• Spray directly onto a clean microfiber towel.

• Wipe in vertical motions on the inside, and horizontal on the outside—this way, if you see streaks, you know which side they’re on.

• Polish with a dry edge of the towel.

Pro Tip: Avoid using household glass cleaners that contain ammonia—they can damage window tint.

Step 5: Care for Leather the Right Way

If your vehicle has leather seats, proper care keeps them soft and prevents cracking. Meguiar’s and Mothers leather cleaners and conditioners are specially formulated for auto interiors.

• Clean first with a leather cleaner to remove oils and dirt.

• Follow up with a conditioner to replenish moisture and add protection.

• Use a microfiber applicator pad for even coverage.

Pro Tip: Work leather treatments into seams and stitching, where drying and cracking often begin.

Step 6: The Finishing Touch – Microfiber Magic

These are the best microfiber towels we have found after being in the business for 20+ years.

The unsung hero of interior detailing is the microfiber towel. Unlike paper towels, microfiber traps dust and dirt instead of pushing it around.

• Use different colors for glass, leather, and protectants to avoid cross-contamination.

• Wash microfiber towels separately from cotton—they’ll last longer and stay effective.

Why Buy Products at Rice Street Car Wash?

We’ve hand-picked a selection of trusted brands—Meguiar’s, Mothers, Shout Auto, and more—because they deliver professional-level results without the professional price tag. Pair them with our oversized self-serve bays and free member vacuums, and you’ve got everything you need to keep your car’s interior showroom-ready.

Final Thoughts

A clean car isn’t just about shiny paint—it’s about stepping into a space that feels fresh and comfortable every time you drive. With the right products and a little know-how, you can keep your interior looking as sharp as the day you bought it.

Stop by Rice Street Car Wash at 1736 Rice Street, Maplewood, to pick up your favorite cleaners, protectants, and detailing tools today. Your car (and your passengers) will thank you.